OmniFocus adds AI tools for building and installing task automations
OmniFocus, the long‑standing task manager favored by power users, has just rolled out a set of AI‑driven features aimed at streamlining the creation and deployment of automations. The update arrives at a time when many productivity apps are experimenting with generative assistance, yet OmniFocus positions the technology as an optional add‑on rather than a core requirement. Users can now tap into AI to craft custom workflows or to adopt scripts that others have already assembled, expanding the app’s flexibility without forcing a wholesale redesign of existing habits.
While the interface remains familiar, a new “AI” tab appears in the preferences, guiding users through a brief setup process that involves linking an OpenAI account and granting permission to access task data. The shift suggests a pragmatic approach: treat the model as a toolbox for those who want to automate repetitive steps, and as a plug‑in for anyone willing to install pre‑made solutions. This framing sets the stage for the next point, which explains exactly how the feature is intended to be used.
AI is instead added as a potential tool for anyone who wants to build automations, or anyone who installs one of the automations built by someone else. A few people have already done exactly that; you can find a handful of such automations here. Setting Up AI in OmniFocus To get started you'll need to be running one of Apple's new "26" operating systems--macOS, iOS, and iPadOS are all supported.
These operating systems all support one of the least-discussed new features in macOS 26--third-party applications can now utilize Foundation, the large language model that powers Apple Intelligence. To use these new features you'll also need an up-to-date version of OmniFocus, which is currently the only Omni application that supports AI. (These features are coming to other Omni applications like OmniPlanner and OmniGraffle eventually, according to company representatives.) Next, head to the Omni-Automations directory and click one of the productivity tools that looks interesting.
Will the optional AI tools in OmniFocus gain traction? The Seattle‑based team has deliberately avoided flashy prompts, positioning AI as a quiet add‑on for anyone who wants to craft or install automations. A handful of community‑built automations are already listed, showing that early adopters can experiment without intrusive UI elements.
For users who prefer a traditional to‑do list, the new features sit in the background, ready when needed. Yet it’s unclear whether this low‑key rollout will persuade the broader power‑user base to rely on AI for routine task management. Setting up the AI requires a few steps, but the article does not detail the exact process, leaving the onboarding experience somewhat opaque.
The contrast with larger firms’ overt AI pushes is stark, suggesting OmniGroup is testing a different philosophy. Whether that approach translates into measurable productivity gains remains to be determined, and only further usage data will clarify the impact.
Further Reading
- OmniFocus 4.8 Reveals Liquid Glass and Apple Intelligence - iGeeksBlog
- OmniFocus 4.8 gets on-device Apple Intelligence support - 9to5Mac
- NEW OmniFocus 4 Features Planned for 2025 - Learn OmniFocus
- 2025-04-30 - Automating OmniFocus with MindStudio AI - YouTube (Learn OmniFocus)
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Common Questions Answered
What new AI‑driven features does OmniFocus introduce for task automations?
OmniFocus now includes AI tools that help users create custom workflows and install automations built by others. The AI acts as an optional assistant, generating scripts or suggesting improvements without being required for basic task management.
Which operating systems are required to enable AI in OmniFocus?
To use the AI features, you must run one of Apple’s new "26" operating systems, which include macOS, iOS, and iPadOS. These versions provide the underlying support needed for the AI‑assisted automation capabilities.
How does OmniFocus position AI compared to other productivity apps?
Unlike many apps that embed generative assistance as a core component, OmniFocus treats AI as a quiet, optional add‑on. Users can choose to engage the AI for building or installing automations, while traditional to‑do list functionality remains unchanged.
Where can users find community‑built automations for OmniFocus?
A handful of community‑created automations are listed on OmniFocus’s website, accessible via a dedicated link in the article. Early adopters can download and install these scripts, experimenting with AI‑enhanced workflows without intrusive UI prompts.